The Bala Cynwyd and broader Lower Merion School District (LMSD) communities are mourning the loss of Tim Mohan, a revered social studies teacher at Bala Cynwyd Middle School (BCMS), who tragically passed away in a car accident on the evening of Tuesday. Mohan, who dedicated three decades of his life to education, was not only a pillar within the BCMS community but also a devoted spouse, proud parent, and the Director of Athletics and Activities at the school for many years.
Jeffrey Hunter, the principal of BCMS, expressed his sorrow, noting, “Mohan was a pillar of the BC Community who loved and cared for his students deeply.” Hunter highlighted Mohan’s unique approach to teaching, which included engaging students with storytelling and humorous anecdotes about United States history, and even singing the BC Alma Mater, albeit often out of tune. Mohan’s presence in the school corridors, always with a welcoming smile for his students, had been a constant since 1993, making his sudden loss even more profound for those who knew him.
The news of Mohan’s passing has deeply affected both students and colleagues, leaving the school in a state of shock and grief. In response to this tragic event, both BCMS and Black Rock Middle School (BRMS) have taken steps to support their communities during this difficult time. Before the school day began, meetings were held by Mr. Hunter at BCMS and Ms. Stout at BRMS to inform staff members, many of whom had previously worked with Mohan at BCMS.
Students at BCMS were gently informed by the Student Services team, which is providing ongoing support to both students and staff. In addition to the schools’ mental health professionals, the crisis support team from the Montgomery County Intermediate Unit has been made available to help those affected navigate through their grief.
Tim Mohan’s commitment to his students and his passion for education have left an indelible mark on the BCMS community. His method of making history come alive in the classroom, combined with his genuine care and enthusiasm for teaching, exemplified the impactful role a teacher can play in the lives of middle school students. As the Bala Cynwyd and LMSD communities come together to remember Mohan, they also celebrate the legacy of a man who dedicated his life to enriching the minds and hearts of his students.
In the coming days, the community will continue to honor Tim Mohan’s memory and the significant contributions he made to education and to the lives of those he touched. His loss is felt not just by his immediate family, but by the entire community who valued him as a teacher, mentor, and friend. May his legacy of dedication, kindness, and passion for teaching live on in the memories of all who had the privilege of knowing him.
